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Policy Plan 2026-2035

Preserving the Light that Remains...

 

Why...

The oeuvre of Thomas van Heck (1910–2006) captures the light, water, and quiet rhythm of Dutch life throughout the 20th century. His paintings of Dordrecht, the Biesbosch, and the surrounding riverlands reflect a deep harmony between people, nature, and craftsmanship.

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The Thomas van Heck Foundation was created to ensure this artistic legacy endures — not only as family heritage, but as a shared cultural treasure for the Netherlands and Europe. Through professional preservation, research, and accessibility, the foundation aims to give his work the recognition and visibility it deserves.

 
 

What...

The foundation’s mission is to preserve, document, and open the complete oeuvre of Thomas van Heck — estimated at 800–1200 works, including oil paintings, sketches, and studies. The collection will be digitized, catalogued, and exhibited through collaborations with cultural partners in the Netherlands, Belgium, and across Europe.

 

The foundation operates as a non-profit organization, combining 40% private sponsorships and loans with 60% public cultural grants from the Netherlands, Belgium, and the European Union.

All funds are dedicated to heritage preservation, research, education, and digital accessibility, ensuring the collection’s long-term sustainability.

 
 
 

How...

The development follows five structured phases (2026–2035), each defined by measurable cultural progress — from documentation and visibility to national and international recognition. By the end of this plan, the foundation will have: Digitally documented 75% of all known works. Organized 5 major exhibitions in the Netherlands and abroad. Reached over 50,000 visitors and 20 educational institutions. Published 3 academic and research studies. Established permanent public digital access to the oeuvre, supported by a travelling physical collection across European museums. Together, these outcomes transform the oeuvre from a private heritage into a shared cultural resource, bridging the Dutch Impressionist tradition with the present-day mission of open, inclusive culture.

Phase 1

Foundation & Inventory

(2026)

 

Objective: Establish the foundation, its legal framework, and begin professional documentation. Deliverables:

 

  1. Foundation legally established and ANBI-status obtained.

  2. Completion of 40% of the collection inventory and detailed reporting.

  3. Professional photography of ≥300 works.

  4. Creation of a digital archive prototype with metadata.

  5. Launch of the public website reaching ≥5,000 visitors in the first year.

 
 

Phase 2

Documentation & Visability

(2027–2028)

 

Objective: Strengthen visibility and institutional access. Deliverables:

 

  1. Expand inventory to 65% of all works.

  2. Online catalogue with ≥500 digitized works available in Dutch and English.

  3. Regional 2 exhibitions and 2 institutional partnerships established.

  4. Publication of at least one academic or curatorial essay.

  5. Reach ≥10,000 visitors (digital and physical combined).

 
 
 
 

Phase 3

National Recognition

(2029–2030)

 

Objective: Secure Thomas van Heck’s position within Dutch art history and heritage. Deliverables:

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  1. Inventory completed to 75% of total works.

  2. Collaborations with ≥2 national museums (e.g. Den Haag and A'dam).

  3. Conservation and restoration of ≥10 key works.

  4. Publication of a bilingual 150+ page catalogue.

  5. ≥5 national media features and ≥5 academic citations.

 

Phase 4

International Cooperation

(2031–2033)

 

Objective: Bring Thomas van Heck’s art to international audiences.

Deliverables:

 

  1. Touring exhibition in ≥4 venues across BE, GE, FR, and UK

  2. Publication of international digital catalogue (≥300 works analyzed).

  3. Partnerships with ≥6 cultural institutions (NL / BE / UK / EU / US).

  4. Educational outreach to ≥20 schools or universities.

  5. Annual audience of ≥20,000 visitors (online + physical).

 

Phase 5

Heritage Legacy

(2034–2035)

 

Objective: Secure long-term preservation and museum hosting of the collection.

 

  1. Host three sub-collections in accredited museums in NL and BE

  2. Sign preservation agreements ensuring care for all hosted works.

  3. Integrate digital archive into national and international heritage databases.

  4. Reach ≥25,000 visitors yearly through exhibitions and education programs.

  5. Obtain official recognition from national and European cultural institutions.

 
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